Brew Markets Paramount Gets Hostile Over Netflix-WBD Deal & Ulta: Beauty's Beast is Back
Dec 8, 2025
Ulta is back in the spotlight with a successful growth strategy, driving its stock to record highs. Meanwhile, Hollywood is buzzing as Paramount launches a $108 billion hostile takeover bid for Warner Bros Discovery, shortly after Netflix's own successful move. The podcast also dives into market dynamics, including IBM's significant acquisition and Todd Combs' surprising shift from Berkshire to JPMorgan. Not to miss, there's a look at potential Fed meetings and how they might impact the financial landscape.
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Why Host Stayed With Ulta
- Ann Berry explains why she didn't sell Ulta even after Berkshire Hathaway reduced its stake.
- She trusted management's Alter Beauty Unleash plan and preferred to wait on execution.
Ulta's Execution-First Turnaround
- Ulta's turnaround is driven by execution of basic retail fixes plus three bold growth moves.
- The market rewarded the progress as same-store sales and guidance improved under Keisha Stillman.
Three-Pronged Growth Strategy
- Ulta is executing three simultaneous growth initiatives: UB marketplace, salon experiences, and international expansion.
- Successfully running all three at once is rare and is restoring investor confidence.